Cosman Parkes comprehensive review of the asbestos industry in New Zealand
Updated: May 10, 2023
Asbestos is a dangerous material that was commonly used in construction and manufacturing for many years before its health risks were fully understood. Despite being banned in many countries, asbestos remains a significant public health issue in New Zealand, where it was widely used in building materials up until the 1990s.
A recent report by Cosman and Parkes, prepared for the New Zealand Demolition and Asbestos Association (NZDAA), has shed new light on the state of the asbestos industry in New Zealand. The report provides an overview of the current situation and offers recommendations for improving asbestos management and reducing health risks.
One of the key findings of the report is that there is still a significant amount of asbestos-containing material (ACM) present in New Zealand buildings, particularly in older structures. This poses a significant health risk to workers and members of the public, as exposure to asbestos fibers can cause a range of serious respiratory diseases, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.
The report also highlights a number of challenges facing the industry, including a lack of clear regulations and guidelines, limited training and awareness among workers, and inadequate monitoring and enforcement of existing rules. These factors contribute to a culture of complacency and can lead to unsafe work practices, increasing the risk of exposure to asbestos fibers.
To address these issues, the report makes a number of recommendations, including the development of clearer regulations and guidelines, increased training and awareness for workers and employers, and improved monitoring and enforcement of existing rules. It also emphasizes the importance of collaboration between industry stakeholders, including government agencies, industry associations, and advocacy groups, to achieve these goals.
Overall, the Cosman and Parkes report highlights the urgent need for action to address the ongoing asbestos risk in New Zealand. While progress has been made in recent years, there is still much work to be done to ensure the safety of workers and the public. By implementing the recommendations outlined in the report and working together to improve asbestos management practices, we can reduce the risk of exposure to this deadly material and protect the health and wellbeing of all New Zealanders.
For more infomation on both the NZDAA and the Cosman Parkes report visit: